A new set of bilateral health agreements between the United States and 14 African countries has prompted criticism. Critics say the deals affect control of health data, pathogen samples and tie funding to performance-based conditions.
Photo by Gariay Thomas, Unsplash
After the 2015 Gorkha earthquake, Nepal expanded cement production with large investments, especially from Chinese firms. By 2019 it became self-sufficient and started exports to India in July 2022, while social and environmental problems grew.
China is now Kyrgyzstan’s main creditor, largest investor and biggest trading partner, and ties were upgraded in 2023. Growing Chinese influence has caused protests, violence and environmental complaints, and China has responded with security aid and training projects.
Uzbekistan began construction of two waste-to-energy plants with Chinese firms in July 2025 and plans at least seven plants by 2027. The projects aim to burn waste and produce electricity, but critics raise transparency and health concerns.
After price pressure at home and new US and EU trade barriers, many Chinese electric vehicle firms are moving into Africa for sales and assembly. Governments and companies plan factories, dealerships and incentives.
The Hindu Kush‑Himalaya stores large freshwater in mountain glaciers. Warming has formed thousands of glacial lakes and raised the risk of sudden outburst floods; experts say better data sharing, observation and funding are needed but political and technical barriers remain.
Local fishing communities around Douala-Edea National Park face violent attacks and illegal fishing that damage mangroves and reduce fish. New local collaborative management committees were installed to help monitor and protect resources.
